Galatasaray have officially finalized the high-profile acquisition of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli, turning his remarkable loan spell into a permanent stay following a stellar 2024–25 campaign that elevated him among Europe’s elite forwards.
The conclusion of the transfer brings to an end months of intense negotiations between the two clubs, with Galatasaray succeeding in landing their marquee summer target.
Osimhen, 26, had spent the past season on loan in Istanbul, where he quickly became an indispensable component of the team—not only through his goal-scoring exploits but also by embodying the club’s high-octane attacking philosophy.
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During the 2024–25 season, Osimhen delivered a jaw-dropping tally of 37 goals and eight assists in 41 appearances across all competitions, including the Turkish Süper Lig, Turkish Cup, and UEFA tournaments. His lethal finishing, imposing presence in the box, and unyielding effort earned widespread acclaim, prompting a widespread push from fans and pundits alike for the club to secure his services permanently.
Determined to retain the Nigerian international, Galatasaray wasted no time initiating talks with Napoli once the season concluded.
At the center of discussions was a €75 million ($87.3 million) release clause inserted in Osimhen’s contract with Napoli—a clause that was set to expire by mid-July 2025, putting pressure on the Turkish side to act quickly, according to Turkish news outlet, Daily Sabah.
While the two clubs agreed on the valuation, negotiations stalled over the financial framework of the deal. Napoli sought strict assurances regarding payments and insisted on a structured installment plan before giving the green light.
Following weeks of behind-the-scenes diplomacy and legal formalities, the deal was successfully finalized on Monday.
According to sources close to the club, Galatasaray will disburse €75 million to Napoli in a structured format—€40 million upfront and the remaining €35 million to be paid in two tranches by the end of 2026.
Napoli also negotiated up to €5 million in performance-based bonuses, which hinge on Osimhen’s contributions and Galatasaray’s success in both domestic and European competitions. Additionally, the Italian club secured a 10% sell-on clause, ensuring they receive a share of any future sale involving the striker.
In an uncommon clause for international transfers, Napoli inserted a unique “anti-Serie A” provision, effectively barring Osimhen from signing with another Italian club for the next 24 months. This safeguard means the forward will not be able to return to face Napoli in Serie A until at least July 2027.
As part of the agreement, Galatasaray have offered Osimhen a lucrative four-year contract running until the summer of 2029. The Nigerian is set to earn €16 million annually, placing him among the highest earners not just in Turkish football, but across the region.
The substantial financial package underscores Galatasaray’s ambition under head coach Okan Buruk, who personally advocated for Osimhen’s continued presence in the squad.
Osimhen’s impact during his loan spell was nothing short of transformative. He claimed the Süper Lig Golden Boot, playing a central role in Galatasaray’s title charge with a string of match-winning performances. His pace, dominance in the air, and sharp link-up play made him a nightmare for opposition defenders both at home and on the European stage.
He consistently delivered in high-stakes fixtures, scoring vital goals in the Champions League and Europa League, and demonstrating his readiness to compete at the sport’s highest level.
Off the pitch, Osimhen’s infectious energy and passionate celebrations endeared him to Galatasaray’s fervent fanbase. His rapport with supporters quickly earned him cult-hero status, and calls for his permanent signing grew louder with each passing match.
As rumors swirled over his future, Galatasaray fans launched an online campaign urging the club to act. Their efforts were not in vain, and now that the transfer is official, excitement in Istanbul has reached a fever pitch.
Supporters have been closely monitoring Osimhen’s travel arrangements, with thousands reportedly planning to welcome him at Istanbul Airport upon his arrival. The club is organizing a lavish unveiling ceremony, expected to draw massive crowds and significant media coverage.
Among fans, the mood is celebratory. Many view Osimhen’s signing as a defining moment for Galatasaray in the modern era—proof of the club’s growing international clout and a sign of serious intent for both domestic dominance and continental resurgence.
For Galatasaray, the move is a statement of ambition. The club now boasts a proven, world-class striker who has already integrated seamlessly into their system. With Osimhen leading the line, they aim to retain the Süper Lig title and mount a serious challenge in Europe.
Napoli, meanwhile, walk away with a healthy financial return. Having originally purchased Osimhen from Lille in 2020 for €70 million, they now cash in on a slightly larger fee, gain potential bonuses, and maintain a financial interest through the sell-on clause.
This landmark deal satisfies all parties and signals the beginning of a new chapter for Osimhen, whose journey from Naples to Istanbul has already made headlines—and is poised to continue captivating fans on an even grander scale.
